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  • Food, Drinks & Local Eats - Bites & Basil

    Hutto Eats Guide – Bites & Basil Located in the vibrant Townwest Commons alongside Hooky Entertainment and Amy’s Ice Creams, Bites & Basil has quickly become a standout dining destination in Hutto. Following the success of their original Pflugerville location, Broth & Basil, we’re thrilled to have their unique Texas-Vietnamese inspired cuisine to Hutto! Their menu is created by chef and owner, Phen Diep. Each dish is carefully crafted with its unique style and flavors. Favorite starters include the crispy Fried Chicken Skins served with pickled vegetables, the Pork Belly and Charbroiled Chicken Bun Sliders, and the classic Charbroiled Pork Spring Rolls. For a bigger bite, the Wagyu Bo Luc Lac is a must-try and sure to impress. Don’t forget to try their fun Spring Cocktail Menu! A Pink Cosmopolitan was a perfect way to end the night! Whether you’re in for a small bite or a big bite, Bites & Basil has gotten you covered! Address: 150 Alliance Blvd., Suite 240, Hutto, TX 78634 Hours: Monday - Thursday: 11:00 am - 8:30 pm Friday - Saturday: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Sunday: Closed Menu: https://www.bitesandbasil.com/ Editor’s Corner Wagyu cattle were initially bred as draft animals for cultivating rice paddies, where physical endurance was essential. Over centuries, natural selection favored cattle with higher intramuscular fat cells, known as marbling, because this fat provided a readily available energy source, enhancing their stamina for rigorous work. Written by Phavana Siharath Owner of Oh My Tea! - Hutto Address: 722 U.S. 79 W Suite 120 Hutto, TX 78634 Phone: (737) 333-9223 Email: omthutto@gmail.com Proudly serving the Hutto community

  • Hutto City Council Highlights from 5/7/26 Meeting

    This will be the last time we get a summary of City Council meetings from Peter Gordon. We want to take this moment to say thank you for his service, his love of this community, and the transparency he brought to City Council. It will surely be missed. Council took two separate actions regarding our Wastewater boundary. One was to approve staff to work with a light industrial developer (Opus Development) who wants to be added to our WW boundary, and a second action was to allow the City of Round Rock to take over a section of our boundary that is near Red Bud Lane, too far away for Hutto to easily serve. Council approved $20,000 from our Hotel Occupancy Tax fund to go toward the City's Sesquicentennial Celebration activities, with additional matching funds when the Committee is able to secure additional private funding. The Committee gave a great presentation on the planned activities, which include historical markers and information, murals, and a big culmination event to be held in November at Adam Orgain Park. Council approved a cost sharing agreement for a new traffic signal to be installed on FM 1660 North and Main Hippo Drive. The Hutto ISD will install the signal and the city will contribute funds toward the project. Council received recommendations from Planning & Zoning regarding the 5-year Capital Improvement Plan projects. Council will use this information to inform final decisions made during the budget process later this year. A large number of residents from the Hutto Youth Baseball Softball Association (HYBSA) came to speak regarding their concerns about the current working relationship with the City and Mayor, stemming from concerns about the availability and status of the baseball fields. It was determined that a City Council work session in June will be dedicated to discussing this further, and to see if any adjustments to the current agreement might be made to better accommodate their desires to work better with the City. Council directed staff to look at funding a sound study for datacenters, to get an accurate picture of what could be expected from any future datacenters that are being built in Hutto, or might be built in the future. In one of our final actions of the night, Council unanimously approved a new sales tax sharing agreement with Hutto Fire Rescue (ESD #3) to clarify past inconsistencies and establish clear boundaries of what properties will be affected. In essence, any sales tax collected on properties annexed into the city after 2016 will be shared between the City and ESD #3 at a 60/40 split, with the City receiving 60% of the taxes collected. This is a 10 year agreement, renewable at the end of the term. The ESD #3 also agreed to pay the city a lump sum payment of $750,000.00 for past collections owed to the City, with all future payments coming directly from the Comptroller's office. The last two votes were to direct the EDC to prioritize development of their own fire station at a location to be determined, and to also begin the process to purchase a "fire apparatus" (fire truck). This was not an agenda item, and it was unclear to me why the EDC would need to use sales tax dollars to create a competing fire department, especially in light of the agreement we had just passed with the ESD #3, so I was a no vote on both of those motions. I was also honored to have been recognized by City staff at the beginning of the meeting for my service on Council. I was touched by the thoughtful remarks from staff and fellow council members. This will be my last update, as my successor Corina Zepeda will be sworn-in at the beginning of the May 21st meeting. I have been grateful for the seven years of service I have been allowed to give as a City Councilman, and wish Council person Zepeda the very best as she embarks on her term of service!

  • The Missing Piece: Why Your Results Depend on Recovery More Than Your Workouts

    Hutto, Let’s Talk About What Happens After the Workout In Hutto, most women I meet are doing the workouts. They’re showing up consistently. They’re pushing themselves. They’re trying to stay disciplined. But what often gets overlooked is everything that happens after. Because your results aren’t built in the workout. They’re built in the hours and days that follow. And for many women, that’s the missing piece. Recovery Isn’t Just “Taking a Day Off” When most people think of recovery, they think:  Rest day = recovery  No workout = recovery But real recovery is more than just stopping. It’s how you actively support your body so it can:  Repair muscle  Regulate hormones  Restore energy  Adapt to the work you’re doing Without that support, your body stays in a constant loop of doing more … and getting less in return. What Recovery Actually Looks Like This is where things start to shift. Recovery isn’t one thing — it’s a combination of small, consistent habits that tell your body it’s safe to adapt and improve. 1. Sleep That Supports Repair Sleep is where the majority of your recovery happens. This is when your body:  Repairs muscle tissue  Balances hunger hormones  Regulates stress If sleep is inconsistent or cut short, your body never fully catches up. Start with:  Consistent sleep and wake times  A simple wind-down routine (even 15–20 minutes) This alone can change how your body responds to training. 2. Eating Enough to Recover From Training If you’re training consistently but not eating enough, your body stays in a depleted state. Especially for women, under-fueling can lead to:  Increased fatigue  Slower recovery  Stalled fat loss Recovery nutrition doesn’t need to be complicated. Focus on:  Protein for muscle repair  Carbohydrates to restore energy  Regular meals instead of long gaps Fueling well supports results, it doesn’t take away from them. 3. Training That Allows You to Recover Not every workout should leave you exhausted. If every session feels like max effort, your body never gets the chance to rebuild. A more balanced approach looks like:  A few higher effort strength days  A few lower intensity or supportive days This creates space for your body to actually adapt. 4. Letting Your Nervous System Slow Down Many women stay in “go mode” all day — work, kids, responsibilities — then jump straight into intense workouts. Your body doesn’t always distinguish between types of stress. Recovery includes moments where your system can downshift. This can be simple:  Walking  Slowing your pace  Taking a few minutes to breathe and reset Small moments of calm can have a big impact on how your body feels. What Changes When Recovery Is in Place When recovery becomes part of your routine, things start to feel different:  You’re not as sore for as long  Your energy becomes more stable  Workouts feel more productive  Your body responds more consistently Progress stops feeling like something you have to force. Where Most Women Get Stuck The challenge isn’t knowing recovery matters. It’s trusting that doing less intensity in certain areas won’t undo progress. Inside Eden Phase, this is often the shift that changes everything, helping women build a routine that includes both training and recovery in a way their body can actually sustain. Because when recovery is in place, everything else works better. A Simple Place to Start You don’t need to change everything at once. Start here:  Go to bed 20–30 minutes earlier  Add one lower-intensity day this week  Eat consistently instead of skipping meals These small shifts are often what your body has been asking for. Author Bio Written by Hannah Prince, founder of Eden Phase, a private hormone-aligned strength studio serving women in Hutto and the surrounding communities. Eden Phase guides women through pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, and other hormonal transitions with a physiology-driven approach to strength, recovery, and nutrition.

  • Now Open in Hutto: McAlister's Deli

    Hutto Finally Has McAlister’s Deli. And Honestly, It Took Long Enough After what felt like 47 years, 12 construction updates, and approximately half the city asking “is it actually opening this time?” every single month … McAlister’s Deli is finally open in Hutto, Texas. And yes, the sweet tea has officially landed. Located at 110 Chris Kelley Blvd. in the Carmel Creek area, the new deli brings one of the country’s most popular fast-casual sandwich chains directly into Hutto’s growing restaurant scene. Meet Hutto’s Newest Deli Spot The new Hutto location of McAlister's Deli serves up the chain’s signature menu items including: Giant deli sandwiches Loaded baked potatoes (“spuds”) Fresh salads Soups Cookies And the famous McAlister’s Sweet Tea that somehow has its own fan club at this point. The restaurant also offers: Delivery Catering Pickup ordering Drive-up pickup options Family-friendly dine-in seating So basically, whether you’re grabbing lunch during work, feeding an entire baseball team, or emotionally coping through a giant potato covered in cheese and bacon… they’ve got options. The Long Wait Is Over Hutto residents have been watching this location develop for years. Permit filings date back to 2022, and multiple projected opening dates came and went before the restaurant officially opened its doors in 2026. At one point, locals started treating construction updates like a neighborhood sport. “Did you see workers there?” “The sign is lit up!” “There’s patio furniture now!” “THIS IS NOT A DRILL.” Honestly, Hutto followed this deli opening harder than some people follow reality TV. Why This Matters for Hutto Hutto’s growth has exploded over the past several years, and residents have consistently asked for more sit-down and fast-casual dining options without needing to drive into Round Rock or Georgetown. The arrival of McAlister's Deli adds another nationally recognized restaurant to the city’s growing food lineup alongside places like Bella Sicilia Pizzeria, Jersey Mike's Subs, Potbelly, and local favorite Happy Panini. And while Hutto absolutely loves supporting local businesses, having additional national restaurant options helps meet the demands of a rapidly growing population. Especially when people want: quick lunch spots, catering options, family-friendly dining, and somewhere to inhale a sandwich the size of a toddler after a long workday. What People Love About McAlister’s If you’ve never been to McAlister’s before, here’s the quick breakdown: generous portions, comfort-food deli menu, casual atmosphere, and sweet tea strong enough to spiritually reset your afternoon. Their “giant spuds” alone have a cult following. No judgment if your first visit somehow turns into: “I’ll just get a sandwich," and then suddenly you leave with soup, tea, cookies, chips, and enough leftovers for tomorrow. That’s basically the McAlister’s experience. Final Thoughts The opening of McAlister's Deli is another sign that Hutto’s restaurant scene keeps leveling up. Between new developments, growing neighborhoods, and more businesses investing in the area, residents finally have more options closer to home. And after years of waiting, delayed openings, and construction updates, Hutto can officially retire the question: “So… when is McAlister’s opening?” Now the real debate begins: What’s your go-to order?

  • Swig is Coming to Hutto

    Dirty Sodas Are Officially Headed to Hutto: Swig Is Coming Soon Hutto’s food and drink scene just keeps growing … and now one of the internet’s most talked-about drink chains is making its way to town. Swig is officially in the works for Hutto, bringing its wildly popular “dirty sodas,” refreshers, energy drinks, and sweet treats to the community. For anyone unfamiliar with the Swig craze, imagine your favorite soda leveled up with flavored syrups, creams, fruit purees, candy add-ins, and enough customization options to make Starbucks look nervous. Basically: soda meets dessert meets TikTok obsession. And honestly? Hutto feels like the perfect fit. Where Will Swig Be Located in Hutto? According to reports, the future Hutto location will be at: 20808 N State Hwy 130 #210, Hutto, TX 78634 The shop is expected to be part of The Commons at Star Ranch development near the Goodwill. There’s still no confirmed grand opening date yet, but updates suggest construction and planning are actively moving forward. Some reports hinted at a possible 2026 opening timeline. What Exactly Is a “Dirty Soda”? If your first thought was, “Why are people putting cream in Dr Pepper?”, welcome to the club. Swig built its reputation around customizable soda combinations, often mixing classic sodas with flavors, fruit, creams, and toppings. Think: Dr Pepper + coconut + vanilla cream Mountain Dew + raspberry puree Coke + lime + coconut cream Energy drinks turned into dessert-level creations It sounds chaotic … until you try one and suddenly understand why people willingly sit in 30-minute drive-thru lines for soda. The Utah-based chain has exploded in popularity thanks to TikTok, Instagram, and reality TV exposure, helping turn “dirty sodas” into a full-blown national trend. Hutto’s Drink Scene Is Growing Fast Swig’s arrival adds to Hutto’s growing lineup of specialty drink shops and sweet spots, including places like Oh My Tea, No1 Boba Tea, and Smiling Donut. Hutto has been rapidly evolving from a “grab fast food and leave town” kind of stop into a place where residents actually have fun local options. And let’s be honest, this town absolutely loves a drive-thru snack run. Why Swig Coming to Hutto Matters It’s bigger than just soda. National brands continue choosing Hutto because the city is growing fast, families are moving in daily, and new commercial developments are popping up everywhere. Swig choosing Hutto over many surrounding cities says a lot about where the market sees opportunity. Also, Hutto teens are about to treat this place like a social event destination. Parents, prepare your wallets now. Whether you’re already a dirty soda fanatic or completely confused by the concept, one thing is certain: Hutto’s food and drink scene keeps getting more exciting. And if Swig’s popularity in other Texas cities is any indication, expect long lines, lots of social media posts, and at least one friend texting you: “Do you want anything from Swig?” The answer will probably be yes.

  • The Ultimate Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Checklist

    How to Plan an Event People Actually Remember Opening a new business is exciting. Stressful? Absolutely. But exciting. Your grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony is more than just oversized scissors and a photo for Facebook. It’s your first impression. It’s your “hello world” moment. It’s the chance to create buzz, attract customers, meet the community, and make people remember your business long after the balloons deflate. And here’s the truth: A successful grand opening isn’t about having the biggest budget. It’s about creating an experience people enjoy enough to talk about later. Whether you're opening a boutique, restaurant, salon, office, studio, or local storefront, this checklist will help you pull off a smooth, professional, and memorable ribbon cutting event without losing your sanity in the process. Why Ribbon Cuttings Matter A ribbon cutting ceremony gives your business: Community visibility Local media exposure Social media content Networking opportunities Foot traffic Brand awareness A reason for people to finally stop saying “I’ve been meaning to check that place out.” It also helps build credibility. When people see community leaders, chamber members, influencers, and locals supporting your launch, it sends a strong message that your business matters. 6–8 Weeks Before the Event This is the planning phase. The earlier you start, the less chaotic the final week becomes. ☐ Set the grand opening date and backup weather plan ☐ Choose event time (late morning or lunchtime usually performs best) ☐ Create an event budget ☐ Confirm venue readiness (parking, landscaping, signage, bathrooms, lighting) ☐ Contact your local chamber of commerce for ribbon cutting coordination ☐ Invite city officials, ambassadors, influencers, and community leaders ☐ Decide if you’ll offer: Food/snacks Drinks Giveaways Door prizes Live music/DJ Kids activities ☐ Hire photographer/videographer ☐ Design event branding/signage ☐ Order ribbon cutting supplies: Giant scissors Ribbon Step-and-repeat backdrop Balloons/florals ☐ Create Facebook Event page ☐ Submit event to local calendars and media outlets ☐ Plan special opening promotions or discounts 4 Weeks Before Now it’s time to shift into promotion mode. ☐ Send invitations/emails ☐ Post social media announcement graphics ☐ Notify neighboring businesses ☐ Confirm speakers and ribbon cutting participants ☐ Create run-of-show timeline ☐ Order printed materials: Flyers Menus Brochures Coupons Business cards ☐ Confirm catering or food vendors ☐ Prepare swag bags or giveaways ☐ Confirm sound system/microphone needs ☐ Arrange tables/chairs/tents if needed 2 Weeks Before Finalize Your Event Flow ☐ Increase social media promotion frequency ☐ Post countdown posts ☐ Confirm attendance with chamber/city officials ☐ Confirm staff schedules and dress code ☐ Walk through event flow: Parking Guest entry Ribbon cutting location Food setup Photo areas ☐ Prepare customer sign-in sheet or QR code lead capture ☐ Test music and sound equipment ☐ Create hashtag for event photos 1 Week Before Deep Clean Everything ☐ Deep clean business inside and outside ☐ Stock inventory fully ☐ Finish decorations ☐ Print event timeline for staff ☐ Confirm all vendors and deliveries ☐ Prep emergency supplies: Tape Scissors Chargers Extension cords Trash bags Paper towels Water bottles ☐ Assign team responsibilities: Greeting guests Photos Social media Cleanup VIP coordination Day Before Double check everything and then check one more time. ☐ Final walkthrough of space ☐ Set up tables/signage/decor ☐ Charge phones/cameras/speakers ☐ Prep giveaway station ☐ Stage ribbon/scissors area ☐ Confirm arrival times with everyone involved ☐ Prepare cash register/POS system ☐ Do a final restroom and parking lot check Event Day Before Guests Arrive ☐ Arrive early ☐ Play music ☐ Put balloons/signage outside ☐ Set up refreshments ☐ Test microphone/speakers ☐ Staff briefing and hype session ☐ Take “before” photos During Event ☐ Welcome guests warmly ☐ Encourage photos/check-ins/social tagging ☐ Capture video content throughout event ☐ Collect emails/contacts from attendees ☐ Introduce speakers ☐ Conduct ribbon cutting ceremony ☐ Thank sponsors/supporters/community ☐ Announce promotions/giveaways ☐ Take group photos After Event The event isn’t over when the last balloon pops. ☐ Post thank-you message on social media ☐ Share event photos/videos ☐ Email attendees/customers ☐ Follow up with leads/customers ☐ Send thank-you notes to partners/vendors ☐ Evaluate: Attendance Sales Engagement What worked well What to improve next time ☐ Save all photos/content for future marketing Review What Worked Ask yourself: What brought the most engagement? What generated sales? What should improve next time? What content performed best online? Every event teaches you something. Pro Tips That Actually Matter ✔ Don’t schedule it too early in the morning unless coffee is involved. ✔ People remember experiences more than speeches. ✔ Keep talking short and energy high. ✔ Have at least ONE Instagram-worthy photo spot. ✔ Offer something exclusive “today only.” ✔ Your staff sets the tone. If they look miserable, the event feels miserable. ✔ Record vertical video clips the entire time, future social media content goldmine. ✔ Make sure someone actually knows where the giant scissors are. This becomes a real problem more often than you’d think. A great ribbon cutting ceremony doesn’t require perfection. It requires preparation, energy, and a welcoming atmosphere. People may forget your decorations. They may forget the snacks. But they WILL remember how your business made them feel. So celebrate the milestone. Take the photos. Cut the ribbon. Meet the community. And enjoy the moment you worked so hard to reach. Because opening a business is a big deal. Even if you’re secretly running on caffeine, adrenaline, and printer ink fumes behind the scenes.

  • Let’s Talk About Cruises!

    Summer is just around the corner, and many families are counting the days to their long-awaited vacation! Some opt for a trip to the beach to soak up the sun and play in the sand and waves. Others want to experience the thrill of hiking adventurous trails or the accomplishment of climbing a mountain. Maybe, for some, it’s the lure of a theme park and a famous mouse, where you can visit the “happiest place on earth!” For many, though, one of the most popular ways to vacation is a cruise. Cruises come in a number of shapes and sizes, and they also offer choices when it comes to numbers of days and locations to visit. One size certainly doesn’t fit all when it comes to cruises! Cruising is on the rise for US vacationers. 2025 set a record for the number of those who opted for a cruise, and 2026 is expected to top 2025, with a predicted 21.7 million American passengers, according to AAA. While there are always first-time cruisers, the percentage of those planning to cruise again is about 91%, proving that those who take a cruise thoroughly enjoy it. So, what makes cruising such an appealing option for vacationing? For we central Texas folks, let’s start with convenience. We are fortunate to have a first-class cruise port in Galveston, which is a short three-and-a-half-hour drive from Hutto. This is important for one main reason … you can drive down early morning the day your cruise embarks, and you don’t have to pay for a hotel room the night before! Likewise, when your cruise returns to port, you can generally be back home by around noon on your return day. Contrast that with a cruise out of somewhere further, such as Miami/Ft. Lauderdale, Seattle, or even New Orleans, where you need to fly in the day before and spend a night. Some believe they can catch an early morning flight to one of those distant ports and still get there early enough to board on time. That’s great …until you have a flight delay or cancelation. The cruise ships wait for nobody when it’s time to set sail! Another appeal to cruises are the options of ship sizes, durations of cruises, diverse destinations, types of activities on board, and excursions when you are on land. In addition, some cruises are very family oriented, with special kids clubs and water activities, while others cater to an adult crowd. One thing they all have in common is food, food, and more food! For those who enjoy a sip or two of adult beverages, drink packages are a popular add-on. For those who can’t cut the connection cord, you can even subscribe to wi-fi packages that allow you to never be away from your email and give you 24/7 access to your social media to post your adventures as they happen! Cruises are available all over the world. For US passengers, 72% choose the Caribbean, Bahamas, or Bermuda as their destinations. For those going out of Galveston, cruises primarily focus on the Western Caribbean and Mexico, featuring popular ports such as Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico, Roatan in Honduras, or Belize. Most of the major cruise lines also have their own private island in the Caribbean and often include a day stop for amazing beach time, food, and drink. It’s a day on an island reserved just for the passengers of that cruise brand, sometimes with only one or two ships porting at a time. Another cruise destination favorite is Alaska, with about 7% of all US cruise passengers making the trip to the beautiful northwest. Unlike the convenience of driving to Galveston, however, an Alaskan cruise will require you to get to a port city such as Seattle or Vancouver, Canada, the day before your cruise (unless you really like living on the edge and trust your airline to get you there the morning of departure … not recommended!). An Alaskan cruise is far different from something in the Caribbean. While the on-board experience might be similar (still great food and limitless drink options, as well as entertainment), the day sights and land excursions are often breathtaking. Imagine seeing the terminal end of a glacier from a ship, or watching eagles soar and whales breach from your balcony! The beauty of an Alaskan cruise will be etched in your memory forever. The Mediterranean is another popular destination, welcoming about 5% of US cruise passengers each year. While a Mediterranean cruise is logistically and financially a little tougher, the wonder of visiting beautiful European beaches or coastal towns is limitless. Another segment of cruising that is becoming more and more popular are the European river cruises often seen in advertisements featuring Viking cruises or AmaWaterways, for example. Unlike ocean cruise ships that carry anywhere from 2,000 to 8,000 passengers, river cruises seldom have more than 150 passengers. These are basically floating hotels that navigate famous rivers and stop daily at historic European cities, such as Amsterdam, Venice, or Budapest, giving passengers a chance to visit charming cathedrals or castles and tour multiple cities in one trip, or to visit legendary Christmas markets on a Christmas river cruise! If a river cruise is more your speed but you don’t want to fly to Europe, there are multiple options in the US, too, including the Mississippi River or rivers in the western portion of the US. Cruises allow you to be as active as you want, or to just kick back and truly relax. There’s never a dull moment … unless you want there to be! If you are one that in intrigued by cruising but a little reluctant to hop in, there are three- and four-night options that allow you to test the waters (pun intended). If you are concerned about sea sickness, there are patches or prescribed pills which reduce the effects. Cruises are a very affordable way to enjoy a vacation that fits almost anyone’s fancy, from amazing theater-style musicals to energy-filled casinos; from water activities on-board to a day of snorkeling at port; from a fancy steak and seafood dinner to an endless buffet (at every meal). There are late night comedy clubs with up-and-coming comedians or relaxed lounges with talented musicians. The fun of a cruise ship doesn’t end until you leave! We have been fortunate to experience all of the various cruises mentioned above, and we are always happy to discuss the pros and cons of cruising with first timers. Our service is free to you! We do the work so you can make the memories! Todd & Katy Robison, Dream Vacations BookOurNextTrip.com trobison@dreamvacations.com; krobison@dreamvacations.com

  • Hutto Housing Highlights: April

    You can feel a shift beginning in the Hutto market— April brought a steady increase in activity. We saw 44 homes sold, which is a pretty big jump compared to last year, and pricing is holding steady with a median sales price around $345,700. Things are moving in a healthy direction. It’s not a fast or overwhelming market, but it is starting to pick up in a way that feels more consistent. And what’s been most noticeable lately isn’t just the numbers, it’s the timing. Buyers are still being thoughtful. They’re still taking the time to make sure a home truly fits. But once they find something they really like, decisions are happening a little quicker than they were even a few months ago. Homes are averaging about 70 days on market, which is actually a good bit faster than last year, and you can feel that shift when you’re out looking. We’ve seen a few people, both buyers and renters, miss out on homes recently. Not because they weren’t qualified or ready, but simply because they waited just a little too long to move forward. A few months ago, there was more space to pause and come back to something later. Right now, there’s still room to be intentional… just not quite as much room to hesitate. On the Rental side: we’re seeing similar movement. About 68 homes were leased, with median rents sitting around $2,000. Homes are leasing faster too, averaging around 23 days, which tells us renters are running into that same thing. When something feels right, it doesn’t stick around for long. Homes that are priced well and presented well are starting to move more quickly. Especially in that mid price range, where most buyers are trying to balance budget and lifestyle, the right homes aren’t sitting the way they were before. For Sellers: This is a really important window to be thoughtful about positioning. The homes that feel right from the start, the ones that are clean, well prepared, and priced appropriately, are the ones getting the most attention and moving with more confidence. For Buyers: You still have the ability to explore your options and make a thoughtful decision, and that’s a good thing. This isn’t a rushed market. But when something stands out and checks the right boxes, it’s worth leaning in a little sooner. As we move further into spring, we’re seeing momentum build in a steady, encouraging way. The market is continuing to find its balance, but it’s starting to reward those who are prepared and ready to act when the timing feels right. Brought to you by: William and Justine Griffith, REALTORS® Sky Realty Hutto Residents (512) 931-9020 Helping You Move Through Life Follow us on Facebook

  • Cover Letters Are a Waste of Time (Except When They’re Not)

    One of the top 3 questions I get from jobseekers is “Do I need a cover letter?”. The honest answer is: “It Depends.” As a hiring manager, generally, I HATE cover letters, but only when they reiterate exactly what’s on your resume. Generally, I won’t even read them, UNLESS the resume doesn’t match the role skills wise, then I WANT a cover letter to they fill in gaps and give context to why you’re applying and demonstrating transferable skills that show your value.I don’t want to read a cover letter that sounds like AI (because it likely is) or reads like a template. If you’re committing to this, do it well and tailor it to the role.Here is who I recommend cover letters to: 1) First timers – if this is your first job ever or if you’ve only held jobs while at school that don’t translate to your long-term goals. It will allow you to talk about things you did in small positions or internships you’ve held and/or projects you’ve worked on to demonstrate your skills. 2) Career Changers – If you are completely trying to change your field, you need to use a cover letter to explain that as well as demonstrating your transferable skills from your prior career. By doing this, you’re easing the mind of the recruiter or hiring manager reading your cover letter and resume to show that you’ve got what it takes to be given a chance. 3) New Veterans Transitioning to Civilian Roles – Veterans, I thank you for your service. What you’ve done is amazing, but transitioning back into the civilian world can be difficult. The jobs you held while serving may not seem transferable, but they absolutely are. Focus on the impact you had and the skills that relate to the roles that you’re applying to. 4) Parents/Caregivers Transitioning Back into The Workforce – So you’ve had a hiatus due to caring for children or other family members. That doesn’t mean that you weren’t “working”. You were busy managing the day-to-day operations of life, a skill you can flex. Budgeting, managing third-party vendors, scheduling; all transferable skills. Highlight any upskilling you’ve been doing without making it personal and do NOT explain what you were doing directly. 5) Gaps of 3+ Years: If you have a gap in working not explained by caregiving or further education, then you’re going to need to explain what you were doing and how you improved your skills. A cover letter is where you do this. 6) It’s Required – This is where you choose. Is writing a cover letter for this job really worth it? If yes, do so. If not, exit the application and go back to your search. So for the TL;DR version – cover letters are only useful in certain occasions. The quality of your resume absolutely matters and should be focused on your knowledge, skills, abilities, impact and transferable skills. Happy Job Hunting and if you need additional help or a FREE resume review, email Stephanie@vasthr.com

  • Five Resources to Grow a Young Entrepreneur's Business

    Resources that can help parents and kids to strengthen their business or provide help in fulfilling the dream to establish their business. Here are five resources that you might useful: Biz Kid$ tv series: The show features stories of young entrepreneurs, financial guidance, and start-up tools. While on this site, check out other resources BizKid$ provide including the book, HOW TO TURN $100 INTO $1,000,000, and interactive games for young entrepreneurs. Join their Newsletter and receive a free Business Plan guide. To view this Emmy Award winning program go to www.bizkids.com “Empowering Kids Through Entrepreneurship” Resources includes online programs and books that “empower kids aged 6-12 to excel in entrepreneurship in life …all while putting smiles on their faces!” Visit www.kidspreneurs.com Gina and Chris Auditore of Happy Panini, have sponsored Kidpreneur Markets to provide outlets for kids’ businesses. Check the schedule www.happypanini.com Acton Children’s Business Fair: A team of passionate entrepreneurs, teachers, mentors, and parents who want their children to learn about entrepreneurship in a practical and fun way. The Fair event empowers children to discover their inner entrepreneur as they develop a brand, create a product or service, build a marketing strategy, and then open for customers to showcase their very own businesses to the public. Visit https://www.childrensbusinessfair.org BiGAUSTIN’s Youth Entrepreneurship Program helps kids and teens learn how to become future business leaders. The program is made to inspire and teach young people the skills they need to create and run their own businesses. It focuses on creativity, problem-solving, and learning to be independent, all while giving students real-life tools, knowledge, and mentors to guide them. BiGAUSTIN’s goal is to help young people follow their dreams, become successful entrepreneurs, and build a brighter future for themselves and their communities. www.BiGAustin.org Start-up Kids Club: This organization’s Mission is “To ensure that all children are afforded the opportunity to succeed at life beyond the classroom.” The educator Founder and Executive Director of SKC credits the lessons learned from her eight-year old daughter’s quest to make her own money during a family garage sale. For information about Start-up Kids Club email info@startupkidsclub.com or call (512) 574-5304. Would one of these organizations be worth pursuing by you and your aspiring entrepreneur? Perhaps in the coming weeks and months, we’ll see your child under a canopy at a local market or online proudly offering their goods or services for sale. Written by Terry Robinson, Founder of Author's Easel I want to express my appreciation to the Chief Hippo at iHutto for the encouragement and coaching I’ve received during my book project. And, be on the look out for “When Opportunity Barks, Let Him In”! Stories of kids finding opportunities in business. www.AuthorsEasel.com

  • City Council Highlights from 4/16/26 Meeting

    Nearly all of the City's Board and Commissions are fully staffed, with several TIRZ Boards and the Economic Development Corporation each having one vacancy. Learn more about serving here. Council received a detailed presentation on our current Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) and received updates on two projects that are currently behind schedule, as well as the steps staff is taking to get these back on track. One major road project set to begin is the widening and improvement of CR 137 (near Farley Middle School). Council held two public hearings and approved bond sales for two existing residential Public Improvement Districts (PIDs) in the city. Prairie Winds and Cottonwood). These are both expanding the improvement areas with additional houses that were part of the original plan. None of the bond dollars are recourse to the City. Council approved just under $300k for road repairs in the Hutto Town Square and Hutto Highlands subdivisions, which are planned for this summer. These will be a seal coat to extend the life of these roads. Residents will be notified by City staff when the project is set to begin. Council approved upgrades to the security systems at City Hall, which enables additional city sites to be incorporated into the same system. Council approved giving our Library Director the authority to apply for and accept grants for multiple library activities and needs. Council granted a two-year extension to our contract with Al Clawson Disposal, Inc. for solid waste service. I'm very grateful for the wonderful community partner we have in ACDI. They donate thousands of dollars to Keep Hutto Beautiful Foundation and offer free trash disposal for our annual cleanup. Council reviewed our Strategic Plan, which was modified in a work session a few weeks ago. We gave a few items of feedback, and staff will bring it back next month for formal adoption. Council authorized a study to be conducted for improving our water delivery network to fully benefit from the 4 million gallons per day (MGD) that we are purchasing from water provider Recharge and that will start delivery this year. Next meeting is May 7th

  • Hutto Events in May 2026: Your Local Guide

    Plan What’s Happening in Hutto This May 🌻 Looking for things to do in Hutto, Texas this May? You’re in the right place. This page is your go-to, always-updated guide  to Hutto events, from family-friendly activities and local markets to community programs and can’t-miss weekends. 👉 Bookmark this page , we update it regularly as new events are announced. 🔄 Recently Added Events (Updated Weekly) (Last updated: April 1, 2026) 🛍️ Hutto Market Days confirmed for May 🥫 Additional Hutto Resource Center distribution dates added 👉 Check back often, many local events are announced closer to the date. 📅 Confirmed Hutto Events – May 2026 🛍️ Hutto Market Days Date:  Saturday, May 16, 2026 Time:  9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Location:  The Gin at the Hutto Co-Op What to expect: Local vendors, handmade goods, food trucks, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. 🥫 Hutto Resource Center – Food Distribution Dates:  May 2, May 16, May 30, 2026 Time:  9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Location:  Hutto Resource Center What to expect: Community support in action — volunteer opportunities and essential resources for local families. 🏛️ City of Hutto Meetings & Civic Events Examples:  Parks Advisory Board + other city meetings Dates:  Throughout May 2026 What to expect: Opportunities to stay involved in local decisions and community planning. 🎓 LEAD Hutto (Final Sessions) Runs through:  Mid-May 2026 Hosted by:  Hutto Area Chamber What to expect: Leadership development and community engagement. 🌟 Events Typically Announced Closer to May These happen every year — but specific 2026 dates are often released late: 🎶 Live music in Downtown Hutto 🌮 Food truck nights + pop-ups 🚒 Touch-a-Truck + family safety events 🎓 School field days + end-of-year celebrations 💐 Mother’s Day events (May 10, 2026) 🇺🇸 Memorial Day weekend activities (May 23–25, 2026) 👉 Pro tip:  Many of these are announced 2–4 weeks in advance , especially by schools, churches, and local businesses. 📍 Where to Find New Hutto Events First To stay ahead of the crowd, check: iHutto’s Facebook page City of Hutto event calendar Hutto ISD newsletters Hutto Area Chamber of Commerce Community organizations and churches (Or just keep checking this page — we do the digging for you 😉) 💙 Why This Page Exists (and Why It Matters) Hutto is growing fast, but what makes it special is still the people showing up for each other . This page helps you: Discover local events faster Support small businesses and nonprofits Stay connected to your community Spend less time searching and more time showing up 📌 Quick Planning Snapshot: May 2026 Must-do:  Hutto Market Days (May 16) Best for families:  Food distributions, school events, pop-ups Best weekends:  Mid-May + Memorial Day weekend Planning tip:  More events drop closer to May — check back weekly ❓ FAQs: Hutto Events in May 2026 What are the main events in Hutto in May 2026? Hutto Market Days, community food distributions, city meetings, and school events are the most consistent May activities. Are there family-friendly events in Hutto in May? Yes — many events are family-friendly, including markets, school events, and community programs. When are new Hutto events announced? Most local events are announced 2–4 weeks before they happen. Where can I find updated Hutto event listings? Check the City of Hutto website, local Facebook groups, and this page for weekly updates. Are Hutto events free? Many are free, though some include optional purchases like food or vendor items. What’s the best way to plan group attendance? Use a shared sign-up or planning tool to coordinate attendance, carpools, or supplies.

  • Business Spotlight: Eden Phase

    Meet the woman behind Eden Phase, a luxury personal training experience built for women who are done accepting “this is just how I feel now” as the answer. What started as a personal journey through postpartum anxiety and family health challenges turned into a mission: helping women take back control of their bodies through hormone-specific fitness and nutrition. With a mix of real-life experience, proven strategies, and a no-BS approach to wellness, she’s created a space where women can rebuild strength, restore balance, and actually feel like themselves again, without guesswork, gimmicks, or one-size-fits-all plans. What do you offer, and what makes it unique?  I am the owner and founder of luxury personal training experience called Eden Phase. My work enables women to navigate new life phases. By designing personalized, hormone specific fitness and nutrition plans, so that symptoms stop being normal, and they can feel like themselves again.  I offer in-house 1:1 personal training sessions, live virtual training sessions or will build out a plan for my client to follow.  How did your journey as a business owner begin? What inspired you to get started?  I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit; I just never found the right path. Through my own journey battling PPA (postpartum anxiety) I was able to come off prescription medication using the principles I now teach my clients. As well as being able to help my mom reverse her osteoporosis using fitness and nutrition based on her hormones.  How long have you been in business, and why did you choose Hutto as your home base?  I officially opened Eden Phase December 2025. Hutto has my heart because I love Hippos. Hippos have been my favorite animal since I can remember. In 2020 we flew out to TX from NV for our gender reveal that was held at the Capitol of TX zoo. Where we fed Tank the hippo a watermelon with colored Jello on the inside revealing we were having our second daughter!  Once we moved to TX in 2021 I was so excited to own a hippo from City Hall, he proudly sits on our front porch, even though we currently live in Taylor LOL.  What’s been one of your most memorable moments as a business owner?  It’s still so new, but the fact that I own my own business is pretty memorable. I love that I was able to build something I’m passionate about and I will be able to truly help so many women. What do you think makes the Hutto community special?   Hutto still has the small-town charm and the people of Hutto truly care about supporting the city and it’s businesses.  What advice would you give to someone just starting a business here?  Don’t give up, if it is on your heart to build a business, do it. Hutto is all about community and supporting the individual business within it. It’s a win, win!   When you're not working, where can we find you around town? (Favorite coffee, food, or hangout spots?)  A few of our family favorites are; the splash pad in the summer! The Texan café and Pie shop (I love a warm slice of Blueberry pie), the BBQ at Southside is the perfect main course for any occasion and if I need to get away for a little bit I love sitting in a cozy chair drinking coffee at Lamppost Coffee. skool.com   · hannahmprince.com

  • Hutto Resident Recipes: Crawfish Pie Recipe

    Let’s not pretend, this isn’t your grandma’s apple pie situation. This is bold, buttery, Louisiana-style comfort food that walks into the room and steals attention. If you’ve got crawfish on hand, this recipe is about to make you look like you know exactly what you’re doing (even if you don’t). Ingredients: 1 pound peeled crawfish tails 1/2 cup melted butter 1 cup diced onions 1 cup diced celery  1 cup diced red bell pepper 1/4 cup chopped garlic 1 cup heavy whipping cream 1/2 cup seasoned Italian bread crumbs 1 egg beaten 1/2 cup sliced green onions 1/2 cup chopped parsley  1/4 tsp salt black pepper 2 (9-inch) deep-dish pie crusts Instructions: Preheat oven to 450 degrees. In a 10-inch skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onions, celery, bell pepper and garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes or until vegetable are wilted. Add crawfish and blend well into the vegetable mixture and sauté 3-5 minutes. Add heavy whipping cream, simmer for 10 minutes and remove from heat. Add seasoned bread crumbs and egg, blending well. Add green onions and parsley and mix well. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Place the mixture into pie crust and cover with the second pie crust. Make four 1 inch knife slits in the top crust. Place the pie on a cookie sheet and bake 10 minutes. Reduce heat to 350 degrees. Bake 20 additional minutes or until crust is golden brown. Serve hot and top with Louisiana Hot Sauce or Tabasco to taste.   Brought to you by: Pamela Rickel Hutto Resident

  • Trash Bags, Donation Boxes, and Dance Breaks

    Spring Cleaning Time! Yes, Your Kids Can Help. No, It Won’t Be Perfect. By LaToya Collins-Jones I’ll be honest with you. Spring cleaning has never been my favorite phrase. For most of my life, those two words meant an overwhelming weekend of scrubbing baseboards and arguing over what to keep. It felt more like a punishment than a fresh start. But something shifted when I shifted how I approached it. What used to feel like a solo battle against clutter became something surprisingly meaningful. A family project with real purpose behind it. If you’ve been putting off the big clean because it feels too big, too boring, or too hard to do with little ones underfoot, this one’s for you. Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be a miserable marathon. Done right, it can be one of the most rewarding things your family does together this season. And Hutto has some incredible local resources to make the “giving back” part easy. Spring cleaning isn’t just about what you’re getting rid of. It’s about making space in your home, in your schedule, and in your family’s rhythm for what actually matters. Why This Is Worth Your Time (Even When Time Is the One Thing You Don’t Have) I know what you’re thinking. You barely have time to fold the laundry that’s been sitting in the dryer for two days. How are you supposed to organize an entire spring-cleaning day? Here’s the thing. It doesn’t have to be a whole day. And it doesn’t have to be perfect. What matters is that you’re doing it together. When kids participate in cleaning and decluttering, they’re picking up skills that go way beyond tidying a room. Here’s what they’re actually learning: Decision-making. "Do I still use this? Do I still need it?" Generosity. "Someone else could really love this toy." Responsibility. "This is my space and I’m taking care of it." Teamwork. "We’re doing this together as a family." These are life skills wrapped in a trash bag and a donation box, and they’re more powerful than we realize. The trick? Your energy sets the tone. If you walk into it dreading every minute, your kids will mirror that. But if you bring even a little enthusiasm (or better yet, a playlist, some snacks, and a fun challenge), you’d be surprised how quickly the mood shifts. Who Can Do What: A Quick Guide by Age One of the biggest mistakes families make is assuming spring cleaning is a grown-up job. It’s not. There’s a role for every member of your household, no matter how small. Toddlers and Preschoolers (Ages 2 to 4) This age group thrives on sorting and matching. Here’s what works: Give them a bin and ask them to find all the red toys, or all the stuffed animals. Let them wipe surfaces with a damp cloth. They will love the spray bottle. Trust me. Have them “deliver” items to the right room. They think it’s a game. You get things put away. The goal isn’t perfect. It’s participation. When they feel included, they’re learning that taking care of our home is everyone’s job. Elementary Age (Ages 5 to 10) This is where it gets fun. Kids this age can genuinely help: Sort items into "keep," "donate," and "toss" piles. Organize drawers and bookshelves. Dust shelves and baseboards (give them a sock on each hand and let them go). Help vacuum or sweep. Make it a game. Set a timer and see who can fill a donation bag the fastest. Give each kid a room or a zone and let them own it. You’ll be amazed at how seriously they take the responsibility when they feel trusted. Tweens and Teens (Ages 11 and Up) Older kids can take on full projects: Deep cleaning the bathroom. Organizing the garage or pantry. Leading younger siblings through their rooms. Research where to donate items (this builds community awareness). This is also a great age to start real conversations about consumption and waste. Why do we accumulate so much stuff? What happens to items we throw away? How does donating impact our neighbors? Give them autonomy and watch what happens. The Room-by-Room Family Challenge (a.k.a. A Saturday Morning Game Plan) Break the whole thing down room by room, give each one a time limit and a challenge, and let the kids compete. Think of it like Spring Break Bingo, but for cleaning day. Print this out, tape it to the fridge, and let your family loose on a Saturday morning. 1. The Kitchen (20 minutes) The Challenge: Clear every expired item from the fridge and pantry.   Kids love being the “expiration date detective.” Give them a marker, let them circle anything past its date, and watch them take it very seriously. Bonus round: wipe down the fridge shelves before restocking. Winner is whoever finds the oldest expired item. (Prepare to be horrified.) 2. Kids’ Bedrooms (15 minutes each) The Challenge: The “Fill the Bag” race. Each kid gets a trash bag and 15 minutes to fill it with clothes, toys, or books they no longer use. Set a timer on your phone. Play their favorite song on repeat. Whoever fills their bag first gets to pick what’s for lunch. The trick here is letting them make the decisions. You might cringe when they keep the ratty stuffed animal, but this is about them learning to evaluate what matters to them. 3. The Living Room (15 minutes) The Challenge: The “Doesn’t Belong Here” sweep. Give each kid a laundry basket and set the timer. Anything that doesn’t belong in the living room goes in the basket, then gets returned to its actual home. You will be stunned by how many random items have migrated to your couch cushions. Shoes. Legos. A single sock. Half a granola bar. This is not a drill. 4. The Bathroom (10 minutes) The Challenge: Toss every nearly-empty bottle, dried-out marker, and mystery product under the sink. Tweens and teens can own this one. Let them consolidate half-used shampoos, throw out old toothbrushes, and wipe down the counter. Ten minutes, that’s it. Set boundaries, hand them a trash bag, and get out of their way. 5. Bonus Round: The Garage or Storage Area (60+ minutes) The Challenge: The “Have We Used This in a Year?” test. Pull everything out into the driveway (yes, all of it). If nobody in the family has touched it in 12 months, it goes in the donate or toss pile. This is also the perfect time to flag big items for Keep Hutto Beautiful’s Junk Round Up. Old bikes, broken furniture, electronics collecting dust. Get it out. You will feel ten pounds lighter. Total time? About an hour and a half minus the garage bonus round. That’s it. Put on a playlist, keep snacks in rotation, and take a break between rooms. By lunchtime, your house will feel completely different and your kids will have genuinely helped make it happen. The secret is the timer. Kids who argue about cleaning for an hour will sprint through a 15-minute challenge without a single complaint. Competition changes everything. Where to Take It All: 4 Places in Hutto That Need What You’re Clearing Out Here’s where spring cleaning becomes something bigger than organizing your closets. When your family declutters with the intention of giving back, the whole experience transforms. It stops being about what you’re losing and starts being about what you’re contributing. And Hutto makes it so easy to do that. 1. The Hutto Resource Center The Hutto Resource Center is one of the most impactful organizations in our community. They provide direct assistance to Hutto families in need, from food and clothing to help with utility bills, medical costs, and car repairs. What to donate: Clothing, household items, pantry staples. Food Pantry hours: Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon at 402 Church Street. Office hours: Tuesdays 12 to 4 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Learn more: huttoresourcecenter.org | 512-759-0784 2. Hippo Hangers (Hutto ISD) Hippo Hangers is a free clothing program run by Hutto ISD’s Parent and Family Engagement team. It provides gently used clothing to students and families in need, and it’s entirely donation-driven. If your kids have outgrown clothes, shoes, or coats that are still in good shape, this is a wonderful way to pass them along to classmates and neighbors who can use them. It’s also a powerful conversation to have with your kids: the idea that someone in their own school might need what’s sitting unused in their closet. Contact: 737-327-5219 or PFE@huttoisd.net 3. Keep Hutto Beautiful (Great Hutto Cleanup & Junk Round Up) Keep Hutto Beautiful runs the annual Great Hutto Cleanup and Junk Round Up, a free drive-through, drop-off event for all residents within the Hutto ISD boundary. What they accept: Electronics, metal, brush, furniture, tires, gardening tools, and general bulk trash. What to bring: A valid driver’s license or current utility bill. Location: East Williamson County Higher Education Center, 1600 Innovation Blvd. Learn more: keephuttobeautiful.org This is the perfect opportunity to clear out the garage, the shed, or that corner of the yard you’ve been pretending doesn’t exist. 4. Hutto Public Library Have a mountain of books your family has outgrown? The Hutto Public Library accepts gently used books in clean, dry, mold-free condition. Donated books may be added to the library collection or go to the Friends of the Hutto Public Library for their book sales. Heads up: The library periodically pauses donations depending on capacity, so call ahead before loading up the car. Need a receipt? Just let staff know at the time of donation. Learn more: huttotx.gov Decluttering is a life skill. When you do it alongside your kids and direct those items to people and organizations that need them, you’re teaching generosity in the most hands-on way possible. 5 Ways to Make Spring Cleaning Fun (Because Otherwise, Nobody’s Doing It) Let’s be real. No kid (and honestly, no adult) is going to get excited about spring cleaning without a little creative motivation. Here’s what’s worked for families in our community: 1. Turn it into a competition (see the Room-by-Room Challenge). Set a timer for 15 minutes and see who can fill a donation bag first. Keep a running tally on a whiteboard. Award silly prizes. Winner picks dinner, gets to choose the movie, or is exempt from dishes for a night. 2. Create a family playlist. Let each family member add a few songs to a shared spring-cleaning playlist. Music changes everything. When the right song comes on, even the most reluctant participant starts moving a little faster. 3. Try the "One In, One Out" rule. For every new item that comes into the house going forward, one item goes out. This keeps the momentum of spring cleaning alive all year long and helps everyone think more intentionally about what they bring home. 4. Use the "box method" for indecisive kids. If a child can’t decide whether to keep something, put it in a sealed box with a date three months out. If they haven’t asked for anything in the box by that date, it goes straight to donations. No debates. 5. Celebrate when you’re done. This is important. After a big family cleaning day, do something fun together. Head to the Hutto Spring Market on April 18th for a day of local shopping and community connection. Check out the Hutto Crawfish Festival on April 11th. Or just order pizza and collapse on your freshly cleaned couch. You’ve earned it. Beyond the Broom: Spring Cleaning Your Family’s Routine I want to leave you with one more thought, because this is the part that always sticks with me. Spring cleaning doesn’t have to be limited to your physical space. April is a great time to clean up your family’s routines, too. Take a hard look at your calendar. Are there commitments that no longer serve your family? Activities your kids have outgrown? Subscriptions you’re paying for and never using? Give yourself permission to let go of those, too. Talk to your kids about it openly. Ask them what they want more of and less of. You might be surprised by their answers. Sometimes the best spring cleaning happens not in the closet but in the conversation. A clean home is nice to have. But a family that communicates, contributes, and works together? That’s the real win! Your Family Spring-Cleaning Challenge Here’s my challenge to every Hutto family reading this: pick one weekend this month and commit to a family spring cleaning day. Just one. Put on the music, grab the trash bags and donation boxes, and dive in together. When you’re done, take those donations to the Hutto Resource Center. Drop off outgrown clothes at Hippo Hangers. Haul the big stuff to Keep Hutto Beautiful’s next cleanup event. Then do something fun together. You’ve earned it. Happy spring, Hutto. Let’s make some space for what matters. Don’t Miss These April Events Date Event Details April 18 Hutto Spring Market 10am to 3pm | The Shoppes | Local vendors and community fun April 25 HWA Hippo Stampede Family-friendly event for all ages April 26 Purses with a Purpose Hutto Resource Center | Bingo for Bags fundraiser Local Resources at a Glance Hutto Resource Center huttoresourcecenter.org | 512-759-0784 | 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd Hippo Hangers (Hutto ISD) 737-327-5219 | PFE@huttoisd.net Keep Hutto Beautiful keephuttobeautiful.org Hutto Public Library huttotx.gov | 512-759-4003 Brought to you by: LaToya Collins-Jones is a wife, mom of two, podcaster, and coach who spent nearly a decade in corporate America, rising to VP at a Fortune 50 company, while quietly dreaming about a different kind of life. In 2023 she finally bet on herself. Now she co-hosts The Lunch Hour  live Monday through Friday from 12-2 PM CST, does mornings with her autistic son Mikey, cheers on her daughter Lauren as a Hutto High Stepper, and helps people figure out how to stop running on autopilot and start making time for what actually matters. She's not here because she has it all figured out. She's here because she decided to start before she did. Connect with LaToya on YouTube , Facebook , TikTok , and Instagram .

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